LAB MANUAL: 09th Edition
LABORATORY EXERCISE 30
DISSECTION OF THE SHEEP BRAIN
Instructional Suggestion
Rather than have students dissect sheep brains, you might want to provide the class with samples of whole sheep brains and
sectioned brains for examination. This should extend the use of the available specimens.
Laboratory Report Answers
PART A
1.
2.
3.
4.
The human cerebral hemispheres are relatively
larger than those of the sheep.
There are more convolutions and sulci in the
human cerebrum.
The human cerebrum with its larger size and
greater number of convolutions is more complex
and thus able to carry on more complex
functions.
The human cerebellum is divided in the midline
(vermis) into two hemispheres, whereas the sheep
cerebellum is not divided.
5.
6.
7.
The olfactory bulbs of the sheep brain are larger
than those of the human brain.
The olfactory, optic, and trigeminal nerves seem
to be most highly developed in the sheep brain.
The senses of smell and sight and the sensory
functions associated with the trigeminal nerve are
highly developed.
Critical Thinking Application Answers
PART B
1–5.
Answers will vary. The sheep brain and the human brain features are more similar than different. Therefore a complete
list of similar features would be very long. Among similar features include two cerebral hemispheres, medulla
oblongata, pineal gland, midbrain, thalamus, hypothalamus, pons, olfactory bulb, four ventricles, and others. (Note only
5 answers are needed.)
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